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THE STAGE

THE ONLY PLACE I HAVE EVER WANTED TO BE.

After performing in several theatre productions in Chicago, in 2011, I added another title to my list: playwright.

After years of attending the William Inge Theatre Festival and meeting many of our country’s greatest playwrights, it became obvious that there was a fit for me amongst them.

All the pieces came together when I met my co-writer for Resurfacing in 2009. Often in life, it takes more than one person to carry out a new vision; it takes the collaboration of imaginative people with the same work ethic. This truth helped to bring the idea for Resurfacing to fruition.

With that said, it’s been my great pleasure to learn the principles of juggling the roles of actor, playwright, and producer. And the adventure continues still, with the recent Chicago production of Stoop Time.

What next? I’ll leave that up to the universe and pray I will be paying attention when I’m given the sign.

THE PAGE & THE SPOKEN WORD

As no stranger to writing, my resume of published works goes well beyond Resurfacing and Stoop Time.

But with 2 books under my belt—and a lot of hard work invested in writing—I also continue to believe that the spoken word is just as important as the written word. And the words I responsibly choose to share with the world through speaking are to help you find the best in yourself, as well as the best in everyone else.

As a 35-year veteran of motivational speaking, I still find it thrilling to jump up on stage with the willingness to inspire, motivate, and guide others to greatness.

THE CANVAS

NOT UNTIL RECENTLY DID I FINALLY RECEIVE MY BOX OF 64 CRAYOLA CRAYONS.

Not until 2001 did I give a notion to painting. I never thought I had it in me.

I love the saying, “when the student is ready, the teacher appears.” There could be no truer words. My art teacher, mentor, and dear friend, Gloria Adams, gave me the confidence to believe in my ideas and my paint stroke.

It’s a dream come true to have my works of art finding homes all around the world. My Gorgeous Chubbies series garners particular interest. Could it be it’s because they’re nude? Like most of my artwork, this collection explores the inherent worth of all human beings—whatever their shape, history, or passion.

My newest learning curve has been the art of “throwing.” It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe, but let me try: FREEDOM. There’s no perfection, just an eye for color and space—layering paint upon paint and throwing in any other type of material you desire.

Let me teach you.

THE FUTURE

Today, as in everyday, I find myself seeking goodness more and more.

Yes, ours is a dangerous world. But it can be beautiful. And the beauty starts within you—with the desire to learn.

We never know all the God-given talents we have unless we try something new, jump in with both feet, and give it our all. Unless we try as hard as we can and dig a little deeper. It’s exhilarating.